Testimonial: Haley
Ingrid has taught me in both the Volvo and the Honda CR-V. Both vehicles were very easy to drive and have excellent visibility. Loved driving the new CR-V, it was very easy to drive and to see out of. Learning to drive with Ingrid is a very calm and non-intimidating...
Read MoreTestimonial: Michelle
My story started at the age of 17, when I was the passenger in a T-bone collision. That accident left with with a concussion and anxiety about being in cars, or using any form of transportation. I was in two minor accidents after that but suffered no injuries. What these subsequent accidents did was leave me feeling more and more scared about the idea of being behind the wheel. As long as I had friends and family who were always willing to drive me, the issue was pushed to the side. At...
Read MoreWhat are the restrictions on a Novice driver in BC?
A Novice driver is one who has passed their road test and been granted a Class 7 license. From ICBC, these are the restrictions on a Novice driver in British Columbia. No blood alcohol:You must not drive with any alcohol in your body Display N sign:Display N sign on the back of your vehicle No electronic devices:No hand-held or hands-free electronic devices Limit one passenger:1 passenger only (immediate family exempt) unless with supervisor age 25+...
Read MoreWhat is the legal age to start the driving lessons?
What is the legal age to start the process of learning to drive? In British Columbia, two things have to happen before a student gets behind the wheel for their first lesson. A student has to be at least 16 years of age, and they have to pass the written practical test. The learners license is valid for two years and the student has a one year wait after receiving his learners license before the driving test is allowed to be taken. If the test has not been passed by the time two years is...
Read MoreCan I get picked up after school for my lesson?
Parents and students often ask if pick up at high school or college is possible? Before I answer this question I ask not only where the school is located but also the time hoped for and what the student wants to learn in this lesson. For example, the location of the school and traffic conditions may not match the students skill level or lesson plan, or it may work fine. The more information a student gives me the better able I am to advise the best course of action and we can agree to a...
Read MoreDo you have students coming to you with special requirements?
“Yes, I see students who are anxious about driving post-crash, or who have been referred to take driver re-certification, new drivers, students who prefer an understanding, female coach, and new Canadians. Having grown up in Europe, I understand about the challenges of adopting a new country and culture.”
Read MoreHow does a student know that all of the necessary skills will be taught for the BC Driver’s exam?
“In addition to building confidence and good driving habits, all of the material for the BC Drivers Class 7 and Class 5 licensing is covered. A student needs to allow enough time to learn the materials, this is individual to the student’s experience, learning style and how much practice time is accomplished between lessons. One advantage of in-car coaching is that there is immediate feedback, the student always knows how they are progressing.”
Read MoreDo you guarantee a pass on the exam?
“No driving school is permitted to guarantee exam results – the examination process is independent and the performance of the exam is the student’s responsibility. What I can say is that my coaching method gives the student the knowledge, the personalized attention to the areas they need, and the coaching to give the student driving confidence, both for the exam and for everyday driving.”
Read MoreIs the BC exam hard for a new driver?
“Of course the exam is hard – if you are not prepared. My students go into the exam with the skills and confidence they need to succeed.”
Read MoreHow many lessons does it take to pass the exam?
“There is no one answer to this question – it all has to do with the student’s prior experience, their style of learning and their willingness. Because the lessons are tailored to each student, we evaluate progress together as we go, and make decisions on the number and length of lessons. In consultation with me, the student makes the decision when they are ready for the exam.”
Read MoreWhat if a student is afraid of being yelled at?
“I understand that the learning experience is difficult for many people. A student does need a no-nonsense coach, but also one who treats them with respect, and is non-judgmental. There are never raised voices during our lessons, each correction is treated as a learning opportunity. Constructive criticism is part of the coaching process, but it is always about the driving decisions, not about the student.”
Read MoreHow safe is the student during lessons?
“We use a Volvo driving instructor’s car with dual controls (as mandated by ICBC). The Volvo is widely known as an extremely safe and predictable vehicle. Remember, it is my job to maintain control of the vehicle and keep you safe, and I have a brake pedal that is designed to prevent...
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